The LEP Forms Review Committee
will be responsible for reviewing test items on Plain English mathematics
test forms. The Plain English mathematics test covers the same content as the
regular mathematics test, but test items have been modified to address issues
related to non-native English speakers who may have been in the United States
only a short time and thereby encounter language barriers. Committee nominees
should be educators with LEP expertise, experience in grades 3, 5, or 8
mathematics instruction, and in-depth knowledge of the Standards of Learning.

The Special Education Forms Review Committee will be responsible for reviewing test items on the Braille,
large-print, and regular audiotape special forms to be used with students who
are visually impaired.Committee
nominees should be educators with expertise in special education and experience
with the administration of Braille, large-print, and regular audiotape special
test forms.

Selection process

Twelve to 15 members are needed for each committee. Although
committee participation is limited to one representative per school division, a
school division may have multiple representatives serving on different
committees.

All members selected for the 2004 Standards of Learning Assessment
Forms Committees for LEP and special education will be expected to:

serve a one-year term with the
option to apply for a second- or third-year term(s);

sign a Non-Disclosure/Conflict of Interest Agreement; and

participate in the committee
meeting(s)scheduled by the Virginia Department of Education during October 5-8,
2004(see specific schedule on page 4 of the attached application packet).

Individuals may initiate the application process or be nominated
for these committees.In either case,
all nominees must complete an application. The applicant must provide two
professional references in support of the nomination and obtain approval from
the division superintendent. Detailed information is included in the
application packet that outlines requirements, provisions, selection criteria,
and a prototype of a typical meeting days agenda.

Provisions for committee members

Committee members will be provided the following:

reimbursement for meals and
travel expenses in accordance with state travel policy and guidelines;

lodging;

honorarium of $50 per meeting
day for committee members not under contract with a school division at the time
of meeting(s); and

certificate for recertification
points.

You are invited to identify one distinguished educator in your
division for each of the two committees and encourage them to apply for this
important service. Completed applications are due to the Virginia Department of
Education by June 10, 2004.

Thank you in advance for your continued support of this effort. If
you have questions, please contact LB Hall (mailto:lhall@mail.vak12ed.edu),
associate director, Division of Assessment and Reporting at (804) 786-9422.